contrivance

noun
UK: /kənˈtraɪ.vəns/
US: /kənˈtraɪ.vəns/

  1. A clever device or plan, especially one that seems artificial or forced.

    1. The escape was made possible by a clever contrivance.
    2. The plot of the novel relies on one unbelievable contrivance after another.

  2. The act of inventing something, often in a skillful or imaginative way.

    1. The story is a pure contrivance, entirely made up.
    2. The novel's success lies in its artful contrivance of suspense and intrigue.

  3. A plan or scheme.

    1. The whole thing was an elaborate contrivance to get her fired.
    2. His sudden illness was probably a contrivance to avoid the meeting.

Synonyms

device invention scheme plot plan design stratagem racket
contrivance transitive-verb

  1. To plan with ingenuity; devise.

    1. They contrived a plan to escape the prison.
    2. She contrived a way to get invited to the party without directly asking.

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "contrivance" in English means: A clever device or plan, especially one that seems artificial or forced., The act of inventing something, often in a skillful or imaginative way., A plan or scheme..

The phonetic transcription of "contrivance" is /kənˈtraɪ.vəns/ in British English and /kənˈtraɪ.vəns/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "contrivance": device, invention, scheme, plot, plan, design, stratagem, racket.

Example usage of "contrivance": "The escape was made possible by a clever contrivance.". More examples on the page.